EHG Residential Aide

Position: Residential Advisor

ABOUT ALABAMA INSTITUTE FOR DEAF AND BLIND (AIDB)

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB) is the world’s most comprehensive education, rehabilitation, and service program serving individuals of all ages who are Deaf, Blind, DeafBlind, multidisabled, and their families. Founded in 1858, AIDB serves more than 30,000 infants, toddlers, children, adults, and senior citizens with hearing and vision loss throughout Alabama each year.

Our services span a lifetime and include five campuses in Talladega, a statewide network of regional centers, Early Intervention services, traditional and nontraditional educational opportunities in residential, day, and outreach settings, and a manufacturing facility known as Alabama Industries for the Blind (AIB), the state’s largest employer of adults who are Blind. AIDB’s three K-12 schools — Alabama School for the Blind, Alabama School for the Deaf, and Helen Keller School of Alabama — provide specialized educational services that empower students to achieve their full potential.

ABOUT THE ROLE

At Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB), we believe our employees are our most valuable resource. We are a mission-driven organization dedicated to leveling the playing field for all, and we invite you to be a part of the daily miracles that define our campus life.

As a Resident Advisor, you are the heartbeat of our student support system. You will provide high-level, front-line care, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment where students can thrive. Our RAs are proactive problem-solvers who lead with sound judgment, teamwork, and a deep commitment to student development. This position requires physical stamina for a high-energy environment, including standing, walking, participating in recreational activities, and lifting as needed. 

HOW YOU’LL MAKE AN IMPACT 

As an RA, you will act as a guide and role model, utilizing exceptional teaching, parenting, and interpersonal skills to support student growth. You will teach essential lifetime skills that prepare students to become productive, independent people in an ever-changing world. RA’s employ active listening and adaptive communication styles to connect with a diverse student body. You will work within a team to make informed decisions and handle a variety of situations. A successful RA leads by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic and a positive attitude.   

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES 

Student Care & Supervision

• Active Supervision: Maintain close monitoring of students within the residential unit to ensure a safe and supportive environment.

• Daily Routines: Manage morning and evening transitions, including conducting routine safety checks.

• Mealtime Support: Assist students with meal planning, grocery organization, and meal preparation while encouraging independence and healthy living skills. Provide support during mealtimes as needed.

• Health & Wellness: Support students in independently managing and self-administering prescribed medications in accordance with medical guidance, maintain accurate health and wellness records, and assist students in accessing medical care or escorting them to the infirmary when necessary.

• Crisis Management: Respond to emergency situations with a calm, logical, and decisive approach.

Instruction & Mentorship

• Life Skills Coaching: Teach and model essential daily living skills, social interactions, and appropriate behaviors to foster student independence.

• Role Modeling: Maintain a high level of professionalism in conduct and attire, serving as a positive example for all students.

• Laundry Coordination: Oversee laundry services and provide hands-on assistance as needed. 

Communication & Administration

• Reporting: Prepare and submit accurate daily dormitory chronicles and administrative reports.

• Team Collaboration: Communicate effectively and work cooperatively with all ASB staff to ensure cohesive student care.

Physical & Scheduling Requirements

• Operational Flexibility: Ability to work a flexible schedule, including days, evenings, and weekends.

• Physical Stamina: Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., climb stairs, perform light housekeeping, and actively participate in student recreational activities.

Professional Development and Certifications

• Safety Certifications: Obtain and maintain CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, and Behavior Management certifications within the first 12 months.

• Specialized Training: Complete Basics of Blindness and Low Vision / Deaf 101 e-Learning course and Orientation and Mobility Certification within the first 12 months.

• Sign Language Proficiency Level: Obtain a sign language proficiency level of intermediate according to AIDBs evaluation system within 36 months. 

• Policy Adherence: Maintain thorough knowledge of all school rules and emergency procedures, ensuring consistent enforcement of campus policies.

Upon offer of employment, the applicant must submit to a fingerprint background check at an agency designated and paid by AIDB. This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job goals, qualifications, and responsibilities, and the employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned.

MANDATORY ANNUAL TRAINING:

For Eligible Employees, the following benefits are available:

                 Health, Dental and Vision Insurance

                 Alabama State TRS Retirement

                 Deferred Compensation Options

                 Paid Time Off

                 On-site Daycare

                 Paid Holidays 

SALARY:

                   $15.37 - $22.21      HP-40

                   $16.28 - $23.53      HP-42

Direct deposit required. 

This is a non-exempt position and is subject to overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.